| Title |
The Progression of Rafter Supporting Columns in Chinese Architecture |
| DOI |
https://doi.org/10.5659/JAIK.2022.38.7.171 |
| Abstract |
This study aims to showcase the progression of rafter supporting columns in Chinese architecture called Qingyanzhu(擎?柱) from the Song
dynasty to the Qing dynasty. Upon analysis of different styles of buildings with Qingyanzhu found in paintings, it was apparent that the
conner rafter supporting column and the vertical bar supporting the curtain frame beneath the roof edge called Piliangan(?簾竿) were
combined into a set composed of columns, handrails and upper screen panels during the South Song dynasty. On the other hand, a lot of
civil houses and stores had installed the extending roof panel called Panyinyan(版引?) on the edge of the roof since the North Song
dynasty; it was supported by columns on the balcony with handrails that could be considered as an early version of Qingyanzhu. This
composed set became a popular architectural language especially in double-story buildings during the Yuan dynasty. After thorough research
of existing buildings with Qingyanzhu, the results revealed this set had been used during the Ming dynasty and was inherited by the Qing
dynasty. Based on these records, the people of the Qing dynasty called it Qingyan(擎?), they repaired or imitated early buildings with
Qingyan and created some new styles incorporating Qingyan. |